The Competition Bureau says it has reached an agreement with Leon’s Furniture Ltd. and the Brick Ltd. regarding allegations of deceptive marketing practices.
As part of the settlement, Leon’s and The Brick have agreed to each donate $750,000 worth of home furnishings over two years to charities to be approved by the regulator.
The regulator alleged in July 2013 that the retailers’ “buy now, pay later” promotions, often resulted in customers paying more than advertised and should be stopped.
The additional costs ranged from processing or administrative fees, delivery fees and taxes.
The companies have also agreed to adhere to the bureau’s guidance on the proper use of disclaimers in advertising and the disclosure of fees associated with their financing plans.
“Consumers expect and deserve truth in advertising,” said deputy commissioner of competition Josephine Palumbo in a statement. “The bureau works to ensure Canadians can trust advertising claims made by businesses and can be confident in their purchasing decisions. Increased competition in the marketplace provides consumers with competitive prices and more choice.”
Leon’s Furniture Ltd. owns both the Leon’s and The Brick banners.